For the past 32 years, Ken Nakaten has served the citizens of El Dorado, first in the Public Safety Department, then in the Fire Department.

On Thursday, a reception was held for Nakaten, who is retiring from his position as fire chief.

"I do want to thank everybody that took time our of their day to be here," he said to those attending the reception. "It's been a very interesting, fulfilling career. I wouldn't trade it for anything."

He thanked his family and co-workers for their support throughout the years.

"The Fire Department is one big family," he said. "I think our firefighters are second to none."